Ensenada

A major Pacific coastal city known for its vibrant port, seafood restaurants, and wine region nearby. It's the most developed tourist destination in Baja California with excellent beaches, shopping, and cultural attractions.

Things to do

• Todos Santos Market — Browse the iconic covered market filled with local crafts, souvenirs, fresh produce, and street food vendors in the heart of downtown.
• Playa Hermosa — A wide sandy beach perfect for swimming, surfing, and watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
• Bodegas de Santo Tomás Winery — Tour and taste wines at Mexico's oldest winery, located just inland in the Valle de Santo Tomás wine region.
• El Mirador Viewpoint — Take in panoramic views of Bahía de Todos Santos and the Pacific coastline from this hilltop overlook.
• Estuary of Punta Banda — Explore this scenic coastal estuary known for bird watching, kayaking, and abundant marine life.
• Riviera del Pacífico Cultural Center — Visit this restored historic mansion hosting art exhibits, live music performances, and cultural events.

Food to try

• Ceviche Tostadas — Fresh local fish cured in lime juice mixed with tomato, onion, and cilantro, served on crispy tortillas—a coastal Ensenada classic.
• Camarones a la Diabla — Large prawns sautéed in spicy red chili sauce with garlic and lime, a signature dish at the waterfront seafood restaurants.
• Fish Tacos de Ensenada — Battered fried local fish tucked into corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, cream, and pico de gallo, best eaten fresh from street vendors.
• Abalone (Abulón) — Fresh-caught local abalone prepared grilled or in butter sauce, a delicacy reflecting Ensenada's rich Pacific harvest.
• Clam and Mussel Soup — A warming broth loaded with locally harvested clams and mussels, often served with lime and fresh bolillo bread.

Local customs & good to know

• Haggling at Markets — Vendors at Todos Santos Market expect friendly negotiation on prices, especially for crafts and souvenirs—it's part of the local shopping tradition.
• Siesta Hours Respect — Many small shops and family-run businesses close between 1 and 4 PM for the traditional siesta, so plan your shopping accordingly.
• Seafood as Daily Life — The port and fishing industry dominate daily culture here, so fresh seafood is affordable and omnipresent—eat where locals eat near the waterfront.
• Spanish Language Helpful — While some tourism workers speak English, learning basic Spanish phrases helps you connect with locals and navigate markets more authentically.